4 Days of floating and camping on the Mighty MO
Below Holter Dam, the Missouri River runs cold, clear, and remarkably stable, conditions that most rivers can only dream of. That consistency is what makes , and it's why the bug life here is so prolific. Caddis, PMDs, tricos, and midges hatch in numbers most anglers only read about, and the trout have built entire lifestyles around eating them. Late spring into early summer is when it all comes together, as the water clears from runoff and the hatches ramp up into some of the best dry fly fishing in the country.
We'll camp on the river for five nights, using our site as a base to float four full days downstream. Expect long, technical days on the water: reading currents, matching hatches, and figuring out exactly what a well-fed Missouri River trout wants to eat. These fish see enough pressure and enough bugs that fooling them takes real skill, and by the end of the week you'll have it dialed in.
Upcoming Trips
| Dates | Cost | Arrive/Depart Location |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 14 - Jun 19, 2027 | $2,650 |
Bozeman, MT |
- Ages
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Entering 9th GradeEntering 10th GradeEntering 11th GradeEntering 12th Grade
- Community Service
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3 Hours
- What to Bring
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We have put together a list of all that you will need for a successful and comfortable expedition. We offer a rental program for most of the big ticket items like fly rods, reels, sleeping bags, etc.. If you are already enrolled, you can rent gear by logging into your account at: https://lillard.campintouch.com/v2/login/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f and navigating to Forms & Documents —> Rental Options.
Almost two months later we are still reeling (no pun intended) from the experience our 14 yr old son was able to have with Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions. The guides were the perfect amount camp counselor and fishing guide. They created a safe, fun environment where these boys were able to take the trip of a lifetime...
Day 1
Arrive in Bozeman and head directly to the fishing Mecca of Craig, MT.
Fish On!
Day 2-5
4 Full days of fishing, floating, delicious streamside meals, and falling asleep to the sound of the river.
Departure Day
Day 6
After our final banquet dinner and one last night of camping under the stars we depart from Bozeman.
How, where, and when do participants meet their group?
The Missouri River Float Excursion begins and ends at the Bozeman, MT Airport. Participants can fly to/from the airport on arrival/departure day or be dropped off/picked up by a parent/guardian. Participants can arrive at any time on arrival day. We typically leave the airport by 3 pm, but we can send the van back for later flights if necessary. Unaccompanied minors will be met at their gate. Participants flying as adults should follow signs to the baggage claim. Their LFFE trip leader will meet them there. On the last day of the trip, flights that depart before 2 pm are ideal. We can take multiple trips to the airport, so accommodating early flights is not a problem. Your trip leaders will help you get checked in and wait with the group until the last participant's flight leaves the ground.
Do I need to have fly fishing experience?
Not necessarily. The focus of this trip is big fish on some of the most famous rivers in the US. These big fish are difficult to catch. We work with each participant to help them find success. Some prior experience goes a long way but is not as important as persistence and a willingness to learn.
Do I need to have fly fishing equipment?
Students are responsible for their fly rod, reel, line, and a few other personal fishing items. Don't have gear? Not a problem. We have quality Orvis rods and reels available to rent.
What other equipment will I need?
A link to a complete packing list can be found under each trip page's what to bring section. Group gear such as tents, stoves, etc., is all provided by LFFE. Personal equipment such as sleeping bags and backpacks are all available to rent.
